Selank and Semax are two synthetic peptides that possess nootropic properties as well. Both compounds are known to offer cognitive-enhancing and stress-relieving effects. [2]
In today’s blog, we’ll take a closer look at their working mechanism, benefits, side effects, and a few therapeutic effects.
Selank vs Semax: The Primary Differences
| Semax | Selank |
| Derived from the ACTH (Adrenocorticotropic Hormone) fragment | Derived from Angiotensin II fragment |
| Primarily studied for cognition-enhancing effects such as improved learning, enhancing memory and concentration | Selank is studied for its stress-relieving and anti-anxiety properties |
| Modulates the brain’s neurotrophins and neuropeptides, enhancing neuroplasticity | It modulates serotonin and dopamine systems to reduce anxiety and promote a healthy mood |
| Half-life is around 3 – 4 hours | Half-life is around 3 – 6 hours |
| Administered intranasally and intraperitoneally | Administered intranasally |
What is Semax?
Semax is a synthetic peptide nootropic and consists of seven amino acids. It is a synthetic analog of a fragment of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) (a hormone that stimulates the adrenal glands to produce cortisol, which helps regulate stress and metabolism). [1]
Semax has somewhat the same structure as ACTH but with slight changes. It was developed in Russia in the 1980s.
The peptide is believed to help protect nerve cells from being damaged. Semax is quite popular among people due to its positive effects on cognition functions such as learning, memory, and concentration. [1]
What is Selank?
Selank is a synthetic derivative of peptide tuftsin. Tuftsin occurs naturally in the body and is involved in immune regulation. Selank was created by modifying tuftsin to enhance its effects in anxiety reduction, and mood improvement. [4]
It is said that Selank has anxiolytic and psychostimulant effects. Studies have shown that due to these effects, Selank may have the potential to treat anxiety disorders. [4]
Moreover, Selank plays an important role in modulating neurotransmission. It is also known for its immunomodulatory effects.
How Does Semax And Selank Work?
Semax and Selank both have different working mechanisms:
Working Mechanism of Semax:
Semax works by modulating neurotrophins and neuropeptides in the brain. Both of these proteins help enhance neuroplasticity (the brain’s ability to reorganize and form new neural connections in response to learning, experience, or injury).
Furthermore, Semax stimulates the release of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which further improves cognitive functions. [3]
Working Mechanism of Selank:
Selank works by regulating the serotonin and dopamine systems. Both serotonin and dopamine improve mood and energy levels.
Additionally, Selank modulates the expression of key neuropeptides which leads to improved mental resilience and stress. One study has also found that Selank may improve sensory attention levels.
Potential Benefits & Side Effects of Semax and Selank
Here are the potential benefits of Semax and Selank.
Semax | Potential Benefits
- Enhances cognitive function, including memory, focus, and learning.
- Improves mental clarity and attention span.
- Promotes neuroprotection, potentially aiding recovery from brain injury or stroke.
- Increases neuroplasticity, supporting long-term cognitive health.
- May reduce stress and improve overall mood in some users.
Side Effects:
- Mild headaches or dizziness in some individuals.
- Possible irritability or restlessness.
- Rare instances of sleep disturbances.
- Overuse could lead to tolerance or diminished effects.
Selank | Potential Benefits
- Reduces anxiety and stress, promoting relaxation.
- Improves mood and emotional stability.
- Enhances cognitive function, particularly under stress.
- Increases neuroplasticity and supports brain health.
- Can improve focus and mental clarity, especially in anxiety-related situations.
Side Effects:
- Mild dizziness or headache.
- Possible irritability in some individuals.
- Slight fatigue or sedation in some cases.
- Rare side effects include mild gastrointestinal discomfort.
Both peptides are generally well-tolerated but may have varying effects depending on individual responses.
What is the Difference Between Semax and Selank?
Semax and Selank have different working mechanisms and compositions. Semax is derived from a fragment of ACTH. Whereas, Selank is derived from tuftsin.
Semax has neuroprotective and cognitive-enhancing effects, while Selank is known for its anxiolytic and cognitive-enhancing properties.
A recent study has shown that Semax has the potential to acute ischemic stroke, and optic nerve disease, and to improve memory and attention under extreme conditions of activities
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, Semax and Selank are both synthetic peptides with neuroprotective and cognitive-enhancing effects, but they differ in their mechanisms of action and specific applications.
Semax primarily targets brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) to enhance memory, learning, and mood, while also showing potential benefits for neurological conditions, such as stroke and memory impairments.
Selank, on the other hand, is known for its anxiolytic and mood-stabilizing effects, functioning through the modulation of serotonin and other neurochemicals.
While both peptides share some similarities in improving cognitive function and mental well-being, their unique properties make them suitable for different therapeutic approaches.
Reference Links
- Levitskaia, N. G., Vilenskiĭ, D. A., Sebentsova, E. A., Anreeva, L. A., Kamenskiĭ, A. A., & Miasoedov, N. F. (2010). Influence of Semax on the emotional state of white rats in the norm and against the background of cholecystokinin-tetrapeptide action. Izvestiia Akademii Nauk. Seriia Biologicheskaia, 2, 231–237. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20387390/
- Manchenko, D. M., Glazova, N. I., Levitskaia, N. G., Andreeva, L. A., Kamenskiĭ, A. A., & Miasoedov, N. F. (2010). Nootropic and analgesic effects of Semax following different routes of administration. Rossiiskii Fiziologicheskii Zhurnal Imeni I.M. Sechenova, 96(10), 1014–1023. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21268834/
- Dolotov, O. V., Karpenko, E. A., Inozemtseva, L. S., Seredenina, T. S., Levitskaya, N. G., Rozyczka, J., Dubynina, E. V., Novosadova, E. V., Andreeva, L. A., Alfeeva, L. Yu., Kamensky, A. A., Grivennikov, I. A., Myasoedov, N. F., & Engele, J. (2006). Semax, an analog of ACTH(4–10) with cognitive effects, regulates BDNF and trkB expression in the rat hippocampus. Brain Research, 1117(1), 54–60. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.brainres.2006.07.108
- Sarkisova, K. I., Kozlovskiĭ, I. I., & Kozlovskaia, M. M. (2008). Effects of heptapeptide selank on genetically-based and situation-provoked symptoms of depression in behavior in WAG/Rij and Wistar rats, and in BALB/c mice. Zhurnal Vysshei Nervnoi Deiatelnosti Imeni I P Pavlova, 58(2), 226–237. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18661785/
